Fraudsters caught abusing blue badges have been ordered to pay a total of £4,000 in court.

Redbridge Council prosecuted six people for misuse of blue disabled parking badges as part of a tougher approach to the crime.

Magistrates at Barkingside Magistrates Court on May 24 handed down fines and costs totalling nearly £4,000 to the “despicable” fraudsters.

Cllr Helen Coomb, cabinet member for transformation and engagement, said: “Blue badges are a vital lifeline for many of our most vulnerable residents, helping them maintain independence and access to their local community.

“Abuse has been going on for too long and we are taking a zero-tolerance approach to the selfish criminals who reduce parking spaces for genuine permit holders who truly need them.

“These prosecutions send a very clear message: if you misuse a blue badge, we will find you out and you will be prosecuted.

“We are committed to protecting disabled parking provision and I’m pleased to say there are more prosecutions on the way.”

Blue badges can only be used by the named badge holder, either as a passenger or driver.

Misuse of these badges is a criminal offence and can result in a maximum fine of £1,000.

For more information on the blue badge scheme in Redbridge, go to www.redbridge.gov.uk/parking/blue-badge/.

To report suspected blue badge fraud, call us on 0800 633 5267 or email whistleblow@redbridge.gov.uk.